In response to this announcement, the Surfrider Foundation has release the following statement:

“While the Surfrider Foundation lauds the steps taken today by the White House, we are steadfast in our stance that this is not enough and call upon President Obama, as well as our congressional representatives, to immediately enact a permanent moratorium on new offshore drilling.”

The announcement was followed by a press conference in which Obama was grilled by reporters on the government's response to the calamity, which has been widely criticized by everyone from Republican Governor Bobby Jindal, to longtime Democratic party strategist James Carville.

Why does Surfrider Foundation oppose new offshore oil drilling?

SURFRIDER FOUNDATION OPPOSES ANY NEW OFFSHORE OIL DRILLING

Our nation’s oceans, waves and beaches are vital recreational, economic and ecological treasures that will be polluted by an increase in offshore oil drilling.

We strongly support reinstatement of the federal moratorium on new offshore oil drilling.

Instead of advocating for transient and environmentally harmful ways to meet America’s oil needs, we should seek a comprehensive and environmentally sustainable energy plan that includes energy conservation.